About Us

Jennifer Harman,  

Co-Founder

Dante Knapp,  

Co-Founder

Courtney Everson,  

Co-Founder

Hi, I’m Matt, a lifelong fly fisher who grew up chasing trout in Michigan streams and has spent most of my life fishing across Colorado and Wyoming. With decades of experience on the water, I’ve learned that fly fishing isn’t just about catching fish—it’s about finding peace, breathing deep, and remembering to put your oxygen mask on first. As a cancer caregiver, I know firsthand how hard it is to step back and care for yourself. But that’s not selfish—it’s how we stay strong enough to care for those we love. That’s why I helped start Reel Relief: to get caregivers on the water, into the moment, and maybe even into a few fish..

Hi, I’m Jennifer, co-founder of Reel Relief, cancer survivor, and believer in the healing power of music and rivers. I’m still in treatment, but you’ll often find me at a reggae show or floating down a river, soaking up the sun. Sometimes I’m in the raft, sometimes in my trusty inner tube, always listening to the water’s rhythm. Nature and music are my medicine, and my favorite reminder is: “Art decorates space. Music decorates time.” Let’s float through this together.

Hey! My name is Dante. I'm an archaeologist who knows first-hand the healing power of nature--something we harness at Reel Relief in every retreat. I've been fly-fishing for over 20 years and in 2021, completed Fly Fishing Guide School with St. Pete's, where Matt and I met.  Like my better half --> (Courtney),      I am trained in Swiftwater Rescue (ACA L4) and Wilderness Medicine (DMM).  I've witnessed the intimacy, challenges, and beauty of those who care for cancer patients, in both my family and my ride-or-die friends. I look forward to sharing the restorative power of the water with you.

Hi! I'm Courtney.  As a medical anthropologist, I am committed to nurturing well-being through the power of relationships--a core value at Reel Relief. I am trained in Swiftwater Rescue (ACA L4), Wilderness Medicine (DMM), and have vast experience on the water.  I'm also a Certified Fitness Instructor (ACE) specializing in functional movement for aging adults.  With family and close friends impacted by cancer, our mission is close to my soul.  I look forward to fostering connections with participants and volunteers alike, in shared commitment to caregivers and those they love. 

Penny, 

Full-time Hippy

Casper,

Fishing Guide (in training)

Gadget,

Aspiring Captain

Hello friends, I’m Penny. I might bark a bit when we first meet (a girl’s gotta set boundaries), but give me five minutes and I’ll be your ride-or-die river buddy. I’m a professional raft rider, snack opportunist, and world-class expert in stealing whatever my big brother Casper is currently enjoying. My favorite place is right at Mom’s feet on the raft, just in case she drops a treat… or needs emotional support (or someone to clean up the snack crumbs).

Hi, I’m Casper—full-time good boy, part-time aspiring fishing guide, and all-around river legend. I ride shotgun in the raft, sniff out the best fishing holes, and offer enthusiastic help whenever someone hooks a fish. When I’m not out there supervising the net job, I’m proudly serving as Mom’s service dog and snuggle specialist. I never let her out of my sight, which is why you’ll always find me on every float. My motto? Tails wag first, questions later. 

Hi, I’m Gadget, the tiniest, mightiest member of the Reel Relief crew and proud holder of the Captain’s Chair (don’t let the humans tell you otherwise). I may only weigh 20 lbs, but I’ve gained over 12 years of river wisdom. My top tips for a successful float: 1) bark assertively at the bobber (it’s clearly up to something), 2) snuggle tight when the rapids hit (safety and style), and 3) flash your best grin when someone hauls in a lunker. Special thanks to my big sister Widget—she taught me everything I know… and probably a few things I pretend I made up.